“Ever-Present Help” - Psalm 46 (Day 2)
Yesterday, we began meditating and reflecting on the words of Psalm 46, where the author, right out of the gate, declares that God is his refuge, strength, and ever-present help. Since this assured introduction frames the rest of the passage and serves as its foundation, we want to slow down and consider its implications. So, before we begin, I want to provide space for you to pause and reflect on the places where you need help - whether that's clarity and insight, courage and hope, or provision and support. Then, spend some time praying, lifting your concerns to God, and invite Him to be your ever-present help in your time of need.
As you read Psalm 46, use the opening verse as the lens through which you view the rest of the words contained in this passage.
Psalm 46 says this:
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
8 Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”11The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Read Psalm 46 once again, but this time, center your attention on the first three verses.
Psalm 46:1-3 says this:
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
Take a moment to reflect on what you just read:
What does it mean and what are the implications of God being our ever-present help?
When we read passages like Psalm 46, our focus gravitates toward the unfolding chaos - the surging and roaring waters, the earth quaking, and the mountains falling into the sea. This overwhelming picture feels as if it's ripped right from the script of a summer blockbuster disaster movie. Getting bogged down by the disorder and confusion may cause us to lose sight of a more profound truth - God is our ever-present help. Some scholars translate this phrase to "an abundantly available help" - let that sink in for a moment.
Regardless of whether our hearts are heavy or jumping for joy, His presence and help are beside us. In the bad and the good, His Spirit is there to guide, encourage, and inspire us. The God we worship isn't detached, distracted, or distant. During our most significant times of need, He isn't sort-of there or halfway paying attention. Neither is He bothered or annoyed by our pleading, conversation, and prayers; God cherishes the dialogue and invites us to come to His throne with our needs, fears, and hopes with bold confidence. God saves us not just from what's to come but in every present moment.
Take a moment and consider…What are you doing with the “abundantly available” help God provides?
Read today’s passage slowly one more time.
Psalm 46:1-3 says this:
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
God's help is more than just at our fingertips; it's closer than our skin because His presence resides within us. I realize it might not always feel this way, and it's challenging for us to fully understand because He isn't physically present, but it doesn't make it any less true. Before departing and ascending to Heaven, Jesus gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit, referring to it as our Helper - the One who teaches us the wisdom of Christ and prompts our hearts to turn to Him. If we listen and respond in obedience and faith, the Holy Spirit guides our steps, provides encouragement, and counsels our hearts to reflect Christ's character in our words, actions, and demeanor.
For us not to tap into the abiding presence of God and His ever present help in the form of the Holy Spirit would be silly and naive. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t ignore your family who live in the same house as you. There would be a glaring issue if silence greeted you at the dinner table, on the living room couch, or on the front porch. No, you share what’s going on in your world with the people you do life with and love. You’re able to let your guard down and be your true self. Closeness encourages conversation.
So, as we begin to wrap up our time together, we want to provide you some space to respond to what we read and maybe to what God is trying to say to you through Psalm 46. First, take a moment to process this question…Where is the Holy Spirit inviting you to have a conversation regarding a circumstance where you need help and guidance?
Another question to consider is this…How can you be aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and promptings as you navigate your circumstances this week?
PRAYER
Father God,
You are ever-present, so open my eyes to see Your presence in everything around me.
You are fully attentive to what my heart needs, so may I become more aware of Your presence, provision, and protection.
Your Spirit resides within me, so give me the courage to listen to its wisdom and the faith to obey its guidance. Amen.